Probe at school; parents, officials meet

Officials from Constantine Public Schools met privately Monday with about 15 Eastside Elementary parents to discuss a matter under police investigation.

By Jef RietsmaJournal Correspondent

Officials from Constantine Public Schools met privately Monday with about 15 Eastside Elementary parents to discuss a matter under police investigation.

Superintendent Chuck Frisbie said a teacher is on paid leave as a procedural measure, but added he is not at liberty to elaborate on the investigation, including its nature.

He vowed, however, to shed more light on the situation once the investigation is complete and if comment is warranted.

"Parents are probably going to accuse us of not communicating, but while the investigation remains ongoing, we just can't say a whole lot," Frisbie said.

He declined to state the tone of Monday's meeting, which lasted about 90 minutes. But given that Monday's meeting even took place was, in fact, an effort to share limited details with a select group of parents, he said.

Frisbie said at the least, it could be the end of this week before the investigation is completed. The matter is being handled by Constantine Police Chief Jim Bedell and officer Holly Cerny.

Constantine Village Manager Mark Honeysett said considering the investigation involves interviewing students at the K-2 school, it will be a slow and meticulous process.

"Holly is going to have to talk to a lot of people, a lot of kids and bear in mind, they are young kids," Honeysett said. Frisbie reiterated that the investigation will have to be completed before he adds further comment.